Firefighters from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service are taking part in the Tunnel to Towers run in New York on Sunday, 27 September. The annual 5K run and walk honours those who lost their lives on 11 September 2001.
The event retraces the final steps of New York City Fire Department (FDNY) firefighter Stephen Siller, who ran through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to reach the World Trade Center on 11 September 2001, where he gave his life to save others.
The run marks the 25th anniversary of the attacks. While the event raises money for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in America, the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service team will be raising funds for The Fire Fighters Charity, which provides care and wellbeing support to members of the UK's fire services and their families.
Why firefighters keep returning
High Handenhold Watch Manager Jamie Smith said: "For many of us, this is far more than a journey or a challenge. It is an opportunity to honour the courage, sacrifice, and selflessness of the first responders and all those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001."
Some members of the County Durham and Darlington team have taken part every year since 2013. Others will be participating for the first time. In 2026, 26 colleagues from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, London Fire Brigade, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, the NHS and Durham Constabulary will travel to New York together — the largest group yet.
Watch Manager Smith added: "Running and walking the same route taken by Firefighter Stephen Siller is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary acts of service carried out in the face of unimaginable adversity. We will run and walk not only in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, but also in recognition of the enduring bond shared by the global firefighting community."
How to support the team
Donations to support the firefighters' fundraising for The Fire Fighters Charity can be made online.